Vienna Travel Guide
Known as both the 'city of music' and the 'city of dreams', Vienna is as romantic as it sounds, and remains one of Europe's most alluring capital cities for culture vultures. Vienna is an ornate and stately city where the strains of the great classical composers who lived and worked here seem to seep from the stones along with old world charm. This is why a holiday in Vienna is enough to inspire anyone to hum the 'Blue Danube' and waltz around the sights before they head for the woods to end the day in the cosy atmosphere of a traditional wine tavern. Speaking of taverns, Vienna boasts a booming bar and restaurant scene to complement its many historic and cultural offerings. The city is also home to some wonderful markets that provide great shopping opportunities.
The whole family can find fun and fascination on a Vienna holiday, as there are plenty of fun activities and diversions, from the performing horses of the Spanish Riding School and the thrills of the Prater amusement park to the opulence of the Schonnbrun Palace.
Best time to visit Vienna
The best time to travel to Vienna is in spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October), when the weather is beautiful and the peak tourist season is beginning and ending. Summer, between June and August, is the most popular tourist season and sees hordes of holidaymakers descend on Vienna.
What to see in Vienna
-Enjoy lovely views of the city from the Giant Wheel in the Prater.
-Marvel at the world-famous art collection of The Albertina.
-See the Gothic masterpiece that is St Stephen's Cathedral.
-Watch the prancing Lipizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School.
What to do in Vienna
-Visit the beautiful Belvedere and its rewarding museums.
-Get to grips with the world of Sigmund Freud at Vienna's Freud Museum.
-Explore the world of the Hapsburgs at the Hofburg Palace and the Schonbrunn Palace.
-Take a tour or catch a show at the Vienna State Opera.
Beyond Vienna
Vienna is situated in northeastern Austria and even the Austrian Alps, in the southwest, are within easy reach of the capital. The popular city of Salzburg is less than three hours away from Vienna by car, and Innsbruck, the gateway to the Alps, is four and a half hours away by car.
Getting there
Austria's main air travel hub, Vienna International Airport is located 11 miles (18km) southeast of Vienna. Trains also wend their way to Vienna from a number of European cities.
Did you know?
-The snow globe was invented, by accident, in Vienna, and these whimsical globes make popular souvenirs.
-Vienna contains good vineyards within its city limits, producing glorious wine.
-More than 200 balls take place in Vienna every year.